Shloka 5.18.25

अष्टादशः सर्गः (Sarga 18): रावणस्य प्रमदावनप्रवेशः — Ravana’s entry into the women’s grove

Devanagari script

तं पत्रविटपे लीनः पत्रपुष्पघनावृतः।समीपमिव संक्रान्तं निध्यातुमुपचक्रमे।।5.18.25।।

Transliteration

mathitāmṛtaphenābham arajovastram uttamam |

salīlam anukarṣantaṃ vimuktaṃ saktamaṅgade || 5.18.24 ||

Translation

Playfully he tugged at his superb, spotless garment—white as the foam of churned amṛta—which had slipped and caught upon his armlet.

Context

Hanuman seated on a leafy branch (of the simsupa tree) thickly covered with leaves and flowers started scanning the identity of Ravana who was drawing nearer.

Characters & Entities

• Rāvaṇa
• armlet (aṅgada)
• garment (vastra)

FAQs

What is the core ethical principle (Dharma) in this verse?

The verse underscores the theme that refinement and luxury can coexist with unrighteousness; Dharma is measured by restraint and justice, not elegance.

What is the narrative situation?

Hanumān observes Rāvaṇa’s attire and gestures as he moves among attendants.

Which character virtue is emphasized?

Hanumān’s focus and self-control: even amid sensual splendor, he remains mission-oriented.